SPRINGFIELD, MA – American International College (AIC) celebrated the opening of the newly redesigned Saremi Center for Career Development in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 5 in the Schwartz Campus Center. The center, named in honor of its benefactors, AIC alum and Board of Trustees Vice Chair K. Kevin Saremi, ’83, Hon ’16, and his wife and fellow alum, Deborah Saremi, plays a pivotal role in offering guidance, tools, and resources for career success, both during and after a student’s tenure at AIC. The recent redesign included an upgrade to the physical space and program enhancements.
Saremi explained his investment in the career center is rooted in gratitude. “Both Debbie and I got our first jobs through AIC. We made a commitment years ago to help AIC with career development.” He also addressed students in attendance, saying, “AIC students, you’re at a great institution with caring people who want to make an impact on your life.”
AIC President Hubert Benitez, DDS, PhD, believes the revitalized Saremi Center will benefit not only AIC students but also the Springfield community. “The majority of our students come from a close geographic area, and most stay in this area after graduation to work here. The center supports this focus on workforce development for the Springfield region. As the College adapts to evolving workforce and student requirements, the Saremis’ generosity remains a cornerstone of support for student success.”
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, who attended the ceremony and received an honorary degree from the College in 2016, thanked Saremi for his investment in Springfield and AIC. “The reopening of their Saremi Center for Career Development is an important element of their campus that directly connects their students with career opportunities. As a matter of fact, one of my most recent interns, Rose McCaffrey, an AIC graduate who studied political science, public relations, and media communications, participated with the center, and did an incredible job in my office, gaining important work experience that complemented her educational studies.”
Graduating from the College with a Master of Business Administration degree in 1983, Saremi remains committed to higher education initiatives at AIC. Having served as a trustee of AIC since 2006, he is the Vice Chair of the Board, Vice Chair of the Executive Committee, and Chair of the Finance, Pension, and Insurance Committee.
Saremi co-founded and operates the real estate firm Saremi, LLP, with his wife Deborah. He serves as the president of Future Health; an educational company focused on health and wellness and holds the position of Chairman of the Board at Insurance for Students. Additionally, Saremi is the founder and former Chief Executive Officer of Consolidated Health Plans (CHP) in Springfield, MA.